SNAKE

 

                                                      SNAKE

 - D.H. Lawrence

D.H. Lawrence’s poem "Snake" is a profound exploration of human emotions, morality, and the primal connection between humans and nature. Written in 1923, the poem delves into the conflicting impulses within the narrator when confronted by a snake drinking at his water trough. Lawrence masterfully uses vivid imagery, symbolism, and a deeply introspective narrative voice to convey themes of respect, fear, guilt, and the tension between societal norms and innate instincts.

The poem begins with the narrator encountering a snake at his water trough on a hot Sicilian day. The snake, described as "earth-brown, earth-golden," drinks from the trough with an elegance that captivates the narrator. As he watches, he feels both admiration for the snake’s majesty and fear due to societal conditioning, which teaches that snakes are dangerous and must be killed. Despite his fascination, the narrator succumbs to societal expectations and throws a log at the snake. As the snake retreats, the narrator is filled with remorse and recognizes the nobility of the creature he has wronged.

The Conflict Between Instinct and Education
Lawrence illustrates the internal struggle between the narrator’s natural admiration for the snake and the ingrained societal teaching that labels it as an enemy. The narrator’s instinct tells him to honor the snake, referring to it as a “guest” and a kingly being. Yet, he is simultaneously plagued by a voice that urges him to act violently. This conflict highlights humanity’s disconnection from nature due to societal conditioning.

The Reverence for Nature
The snake symbolizes the raw, unfiltered beauty of the natural world. Lawrence's description of the snake drinking with calm dignity evokes a sense of awe. The narrator’s use of words like “majestic” and “king” underscores the reverence he feels. This reverence, however, is tarnished by his later act of aggression, reflecting humanity’s inability to coexist harmoniously with nature.

Guilt and Regret
After throwing the log, the narrator experiences immediate regret, recognizing his act as a betrayal of the snake’s trust. He calls his action “petty” and feels he has missed an opportunity to honor a sacred moment. This guilt serves as a critique of humanity’s tendency to destroy what it does not understand or fears.

Symbolism and Archetypes
The snake carries rich symbolic meaning in the poem. On one level, it represents the Biblical serpent, traditionally associated with sin and temptation. However, Lawrence subverts this archetype by portraying the snake as innocent and noble. Its connection to the earth and water also emphasizes its primal, life-giving qualities, positioning it as a symbol of nature’s sanctity.


D.H. Lawrence’s "Snake" is a timeless meditation on the complexities of human nature and our relationship with the environment. Through its vivid imagery, symbolic depth, and emotional resonance, the poem challenges readers to reflect on their own attitudes toward the natural world and the conflicts within themselves. Lawrence leaves us with the haunting realization that in succumbing to fear and societal expectations, we often betray our better instincts and lose something profoundly sacred in the process.



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